Regional Director - Industrial Projects APAC

Our client, a leading global Freight Forwarder, is building a dedicated Industrial Projects division to deliver end-to-end logistics solutions for complex, capital-intensive projects. We are seeking a Regional Director to lead and scale business for the Asia Pacific region to based in Singapore, with full accountability for commercial growth, operational execution, and P&L performance. This is a build role — ideal for a commercially driven project logistics leader who can originate opportunities, lead complex solutions, and develop a high-performing team.

The Regional Director – Industrial Projects APAC is responsible for leading the development, execution, and growth of the company’s global industrial project logistics capabilities. This role oversees the end-to-end delivery of complex, high-value, and non-standard cargo movements, including heavy-lift, breakbulk, and out-of-gauge shipments.

With full accountability for commercial performance and operational excellence, the Director will drive strategic growth across key verticals such as Engineering, Procurement & Construction.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategy & Business Development

• Define and execute the global/regional Project Logistics strategy aligned with corporate objectives
• Identify, develop, and secure large-scale project opportunities with EPC contractors, project owners, and industrial clients
• Lead complex tenders, RFQs, and solution-based sales initiatives
• Build and maintain a strong pipeline across key sectors (renewables, oil & gas, infrastructure, mining)
• Establish strategic partnerships and expand the company’s footprint in target markets

2. Solution Design & Engineering Oversight

• Oversee the design of end-to-end project logistics solutions, including multi-modal transport strategies
• Ensure feasibility through route surveys, load engineering, risk assessments, and regulatory compliance
• Collaborate with internal and external engineering teams for lifting, transport, and installation planning
• Approve technical and commercial proposals for complex project moves

3. Operational Execution & Delivery

• Ensure successful execution of project cargo movements, including:
• Heavy-lift and oversized cargo
• Breakbulk and charter shipments
• Time-critical and milestone-driven deliveries
• Oversee project timelines, resource planning, and milestone tracking
• Manage subcontractors, carriers, and specialized vendors
• Mitigate operational risks and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards

4. Financial & P&L Accountability

• Own the Project Logistics P&L, ensuring revenue growth and margin optimization
• Develop pricing strategies and cost models for complex projects
• Monitor financial performance, including cost control, forecasting, and risk management
• Drive profitability through efficient procurement and vendor management

5. Stakeholder & Client Management

• Act as senior point of contact for key clients, contractors, and partners
• Build long-term relationships with EPC firms, developers, and industrial clients
• Liaise with port authorities, customs agencies, and regulatory bodies
• Represent the company at industry forums, trade events, and client engagements

6. Leadership & Capability Building

• Lead and develop a high-performing team across commercial, operations, and engineering functions
• Establish best practices, SOPs, and governance frameworks for project logistics
• Drive continuous improvement in execution, safety, and customer experience
• Build internal capabilities in project cargo handling and engineering expertise

Key Requirements

• 15–20+ years of experience in project logistics / project cargo / heavy-lift forwarding
• Proven track record in delivering complex, large-scale logistics projects
• Strong commercial acumen with experience in winning and managing high-value contracts

Deep knowledge of:

• Maritime & Air charter
• Heavy-lift and out-of-gauge transport
• Multi-modal project logistics and route engineering
• Deeply experienced in the EPC market
• Strong leadership, stakeholder management, and negotiation skills
• Bachelor’s degree required; engineering, logistics, or business, with post graduate qualification preferred
• Holder of a recognized Project Management qualification such as PRINCE2 or PMQ

Success Metrics

• Project logistics revenue growth and pipeline conversion
• Profitability and margin performance of projects
• On-time, damage-free delivery of project cargo
• Client satisfaction and repeat business
• Expansion into new markets, sectors, or strategic accounts